2-Hour Walking Tour of Bourg-Saint-Pierre and Great Saint Bernard Hospice

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Visit the Great Saint Bernard Hospice and its historic Chapel
• 02 Learn about Saint Bernard of Menthon and his mission of hospitality
• 03 Walk through Bourg-Saint-Pierre and the historic alpine pass
• 04 Discover the legacy of the Saint Bernard dogs amid Alpine scenery

Step into the sacred heart of the Swiss Alps on this walking tour in Bourg-Saint-Pierre. Discover the Great Saint Bernard Hospice, founded to shelter pilgrims crossing the alpine pass between Switzerland and Italy. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and centuries of Christian tradition, this experience blends faith, history, and natural beauty, making it ideal for pilgrims and travelers seeking inspiration along one of Europe's most historic routes.

Admire the legacy of the famous Saint Bernard dogs, bred by the monks to rescue travelers lost in snow and storms.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

Languages English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Great Saint Bernard Hospice and Bourg-Saint-Pierre Walk

• Visit the Great Saint Bernard Hospice, founded to welcome and protect pilgrims crossing the historic Alpine pass between Switzerland and Italy.
• Explore the Hospice Chapel, a place of prayer and refuge that has served travelers for nearly a thousand years.
• Learn about Saint Bernard of Menthon, the patron saint of mountaineers and pilgrims, and the mission of hospitality he established.
• Discover the history of the Great Saint Bernard Pass, one of Europe's most important pilgrimage and trade routes.
• Walk through the village of Bourg-Saint-Pierre, surrounded by dramatic Alpine scenery and deep-rooted Christian tradition.
• Admire the legacy of the famous Saint Bernard dogs, bred by the monks to rescue travelers lost in snow and storms.
• Enjoy peaceful moments of reflection in the mountains, where faith, nature, and history meet.
• Conclude your visit at the Hospice with a quiet time of prayer and gratitude, inspired by centuries of service and compassion.

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Experienced local tour guide
• Guided visit to the Great Saint Bernard Hospice and Chapel
• Small group experience

What's Not Included

• Personal expenses
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks
• Transportation to and from Bourg-Saint-Pierre
• Optional donations
• Entrance fees (if applicable)

What to bring

• Warm clothing
• Sturdy footwear
• Water
• Light snacks

Know before you go

• The hospice is located at high altitude; weather can change rapidly. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended.
• Paths are generally accessible but can be uneven in outdoor areas.
• Some areas may be restricted due to religious activities; respect for local customs and quiet reflection are advised.
• The hospice provides limited food and refreshment options; carrying water and light snacks is recommended.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Route Grand-Saint-Bernard, Bourg-Saint-Pierre, Valais, Switzerland

Tour start

1946 Bourg-Saint-Pierre, Switzerland

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.